Agra

As the Mughal empire's capital (1556-1648), Agra was once one of South Asia's most important urban centers, and this historical influence is evident in its magnificent architecture.

The most famous site is the Taj Mahal, which was built by Emperor Shah Jahan (reigned 1627-58) as a tomb for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Islamic law forbids figural imagery at religious sites, so the Taj is decorated with a combination of floral imagery, geometric patterns, and calligraphy from the Qur'an. The building's visual aspect changes from visit to visit because its backdrop is the sky (which of course changes from day to day). It sits inside an enclosed garden, which is probably intended to evoke an image of paradise.

Agra's second most visited site is the Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in the 1550s. The fort had multiple functions: as a stronghold and and military center (hence the impressive walls and gates), as an administrative center for the government, and finally as a royal residence (although the royal apartments are surprisingly small). The fort still serves its military function; as with Delhi's Red Fort an Indian army base occupies most of the site.